Kakaʻako Waterfront Park
Overview
Kakaʻako Waterfront Park is a striking 35-acre urban green space perched along the south shore of Honolulu, offering panoramic ocean views, rolling grassy hills, and a fascinating origin story as a transformed municipal landfill. Opened in 1992, this oceanfront park provides a welcome escape from the bustle of nearby Ala Moana and downtown Honolulu, with sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head, and Waikiki stretching across the horizon.
Built atop a capped landfill, the park features gently undulating terrain covered in manicured grass, connected by paved pathways popular with joggers, cyclists, and families. The shoreline is defined by volcanic boulders and a seawall rather than sandy beach, giving the park a rugged, dramatic coastal character. Concrete stairs at various points provide access to the ocean for experienced swimmers, snorkelers, and divers. The eastern end of the park is home to the famous Point Panic bodysurfing break, one of the most respected and challenging bodysurfing spots in Honolulu.
Recreation
While Kakaʻako Waterfront Park lacks a traditional beach, it offers diverse recreational opportunities. The paved pathways are ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling with uninterrupted ocean views. Grassy slopes and shaded picnic areas provide perfect spots for family gatherings, kite flying, and sunset watching. The park’s amphitheater hosts community events and cultural performances throughout the year. Offshore surf breaks including Point Panic (bodysurfing only), Flies, and Incinerators draw experienced wave riders. The park also features the Ehime Maru Memorial, a poignant tribute to the Japanese fisheries training vessel lost in 2001.
Location & Access
Kakaʻako Waterfront Park is located at 102 Ohe Street in Honolulu, accessible from Ala Moana Boulevard via Cooke Street. Free parking is available within the park. The park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:45 PM (gates close at sunset). Nearby landmarks include the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center and the John A. Burns School of Medicine. TheBus routes serving Ala Moana Boulevard provide convenient public transit access.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a beach at Kakaako Waterfront Park?
No, the park does not have a sandy beach. The shoreline consists of volcanic boulders and a seawall. Ocean access is available via concrete stairs at several points, but conditions can be rough and are best suited for experienced swimmers.
Is the park free to visit?
Yes, Kakaʻako Waterfront Park is free and open to the public with free parking available.
What is Point Panic?
Point Panic is one of Honolulu’s most famous bodysurfing breaks, located at the eastern end of the park. Board surfing is not permitted at this break — it is strictly for bodysurfing and bodyboarding.
Wildlife & Nature
Kaka’ako Waterfront Park — 35 acres of urban oceanfront in Honolulu. The park’s rocky shoreline and ocean support green sea turtles and tropical fish. Humpback whales are visible offshore in winter. The park is built on a former landfill — a remarkable environmental reclamation.
Nearby Attractions
Honolulu — surrounding. Ala Moana Beach Park — 1 mile west. Ward Village — adjacent.
